The clinical management of hemophilia and head trauma: a survey of current clinical practice among pediatric hematology/oncology physicians.

BACKGROUND

Determining the appropriate evaluation for a pediatric patient with hemophilia and head trauma is a diagnostic challenge with no neuroimaging guidelines and limited clinical evidence to direct care.

METHODS

A questionnaire, with two case scenarios, was emailed to members of the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. The case scenarios involved asymptomatic toddlers with severe hemophilia who had either fallen from a height (case 1) or from standing (case 2). Respondents were asked to select from six management options. The case scenarios were then altered to include: a large palpable hematoma, prophylactic factor infusion 24 hr prior, the trauma occurred 48 hr prior, wearing a soft helmet, or emesis.

RESULTS

The completed response rate was 23% (252/1,077). Computed tomography (CT) was selected by 68.9% (#1) and 56.4% (#2) of respondents. In both case scenarios the presence of a palpable bruise resulted in a statistically significant increase in CT usage to 83.7% and 82.8% (P < 0.001). The use of prophylaxis did not result in a statistically significant decrease in CT usage. Duration of factor replacement was variable ranging from 1 to 4 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Physician self reported management of pediatric patients with hemophilia and head trauma is diverse. The use of CT imaging for mild head trauma in patients without signs or symptoms of intracranial hemorrhage was very common. The use of prophylaxis did not reduce the use of head CT imaging. This variation in clinical practice demonstrates the lack of evidence regarding the management of head trauma in patients with hemophilia.